Senior Crop Protection Specialist - Research & Development

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Significant paid time off

Professional development support

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Crop Protection Specialist based in Pretoria, Gauteng, with a hybrid work model combining on-site labs and field trials with remote analysis.

You will lead R&D programs for pest and disease management, design trials, and guide cross-functional teams to bring innovative crop protection solutions to market. The ideal candidate has a PhD and 8+ years in crop protection R&D, plus strong regulatory, IPM, and communication skills.

Qualifications

• PhD in Entomology, Plant Pathology, Weed Science, Agronomy or related field.
• 8+ years in crop protection R&D within agrochemical/biopesticide sectors.
• Strong design, data interpretation, and IPM knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D projects for insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, and biopesticides.
• Design and run field trials and lab studies on product efficacy and safety.
• Analyze data and advise development pathways for products.
• Collaborate with chemists, toxicologists, and regulatory teams.
• Prepare research reports and regulatory submissions.
• Mentor junior researchers and manage budgets/timelines.

Skills

Project leadership

Experimental design

Data analysis

IPM principles

Scientific communication

Education

PhD in Entomology or Plant Pathology

Tools

Statistical analysis software

Agricultural databases

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished Senior Crop Protection Specialist to lead research and development initiatives focused on innovative pest and disease management solutions. This role is based in Pretoria, Gauteng, offering a hybrid work model that combines essential on-site laboratory and field activities with remote analysis and reporting. You will be responsible for the discovery, evaluation, and development of new crop protection products and strategies, contributing significantly to sustainable agriculture and food security. The ideal candidate possesses a strong scientific background in entomology, plant pathology, or weed science, coupled with extensive experience in product development within the agrochemical or biopesticide industries. You will guide research projects from conception through to field validation, working collaboratively with internal teams and external partners. This position demands a strategic thinker with exceptional problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of regulatory landscapes. Your expertise will be crucial in addressing evolving agricultural challenges and bringing effective, environmentally sound solutions to market. Our client is dedicated to advancing agricultural practices through scientific rigor and innovation, making this a rewarding opportunity for a dedicated professional.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead R&D projects for the development of novel crop protection solutions, including insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, and biopesticides.
• Design and execute field trials and laboratory studies to evaluate product efficacy, safety, and environmental impact.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data, drawing conclusions and formulating recommendations for product development pathways.
• Collaborate closely with formulation chemists, toxicologists, and regulatory affairs specialists throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Stay abreast of scientific advancements, market trends, and competitive products in crop protection.
• Manage research budgets, resources, and timelines effectively.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior researchers and technicians.
• Prepare comprehensive research reports, scientific publications, and regulatory submission documents.
• Identify and assess potential new technologies and strategic partnerships for innovation.
• Ensure adherence to all laboratory safety protocols, quality standards, and regulatory guidelines.
• Communicate research findings and project updates to stakeholders at various levels.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Entomology, Plant Pathology, Weed Science, Agronomy, or a related agricultural science discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in crop protection research and development, preferably within the agrochemical or biopesticide industry.
• Proven expertise in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation of field and laboratory trial results.
• Strong understanding of modes of action, resistance management, and integrated pest management (IPM) principles.
• Experience with product registration processes and regulatory requirements in key agricultural markets.
• Excellent scientific writing, presentation, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead research projects and manage cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software and relevant agricultural databases.
• Ability to work effectively in both laboratory and field settings, and manage remote collaboration.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel for field trials and conferences within Gauteng and beyond.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and potential for significant bonuses based on R&D success.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings plan.
• Significant paid time off and annual leave.
• Support for professional development, including conference attendance and further education.
• Opportunity to work with a leading innovator in agricultural science.
• Hybrid work model providing flexibility and work-life balance.
• State-of-the-art research facilities and equipment.
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.
• Dynamic and collaborative research environment.